Hi I don't understand my VAT returns, box 5 in my return is -4,070.04 is this tax due to me or HMRC?

I'm here to help you sort this out, obiajunwaa-emc.

Let's run the VAT Exception Details report in QuickBooks Online. This is a way to help make sure that no VAT is missed or duplicated when reporting to HMRC. Here's how:

1. Go to Business overview and select Reports.
2. Type in the report name in the search bar. You can also browse the list.
3. Select the report to open it.

For more details about managing the report, please see this article: VAT Exceptions and Reports in QuickBooks Online.

If you need additional help with your VAT returns, I'd suggest contacting our QuickBooks Support Team. They're equipped with tools to check and determine the cause. Here's how to contact our support:

1. Go to the Help (?) icon at the top.
2. On the Assistant tab, click Talk to a human.
3. Enter your concern in the Type something field, then click the send icon.
4. Click I still need a human.
5. Select Get help from a human.
6. You can either select the Chat with us or Have us call you option.

Additionally, I've added an article that'll help you pay the correct amount of tax and avoid any penalties when filing your VAT returns to HMRC: VAT Codes in QuickBooks Online.

Please keep us posted if you need additional assistance managing your VAT returns. We're always here to help you out.

Hi obiajunwaa-emc@o 

Not that it's much help but the guidance is here...

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-fill-in-and-submit-your-vat-return-vat-notice-70012#section3

3.6 Filling in box 5
Box 5 net VAT to pay to HMRC or reclaim
Take the figures in boxes 3 and 4. Deduct the smaller from the larger and enter the difference in box 5.

If the figure in box 3 is more than the figure in box 4, the difference is the amount you must pay. If the figure in box 3 is less than the figure in box 4 we’ll credit your account and repay the balance, subject to any enquiries we may need to make.

If Box 5 is negative - that's tax due to come back to you from HMRC.

Hope this helps.